Bass Generation

In the world of Euro-dance, Basshunter has distinguished himself as the emo-oriented dance producer, a master of combining the vibrant and simple sound of acts like Cascada with lyrics and singing that are more Depeche Mode or any given "Scene" band. Forget the tough title or his cocky stare on the cover, Basshunter's 2009 effort Bass Generation is filled with love and heartbreak, all packaged in thumping and bright dance tracks that are heavily influenced by vocal trance. Best of the lot, and a big international dance hit on top of it, is the opening "Every Morning," one of the few blissful numbers ("I'm a man in love/And it's glorious") where love goes right. Much of the album is as wistful as Martin Gore after a breakup, with titles like "Why," "Don't Walk Away," and "I Will Learn to Love Again" marking the saddest numbers. Those who don't have a taste for mainstream Euro-dance music will find the long track list numbing by its end, but track by track, it's easy to appreciate what a fine club craftsman this precious Romeo can be. Anyone who buys their dancefloor romance in bulk won't mind the redundancy at all, and should consider Bass Generation as a possible pre-clubbing or post-relationship soundtrack. David Jeffries.